Dog Accidentally Shoots Owner in Pennsylvania Home, Investigation Underway

URGENT UPDATE: A man in Shillington, Pennsylvania was hospitalized after being accidentally shot in the back by his dog late Tuesday night. The incident unfolded around 11:13 PM when the 53-year-old victim, whose name has not been disclosed, left his shotgun on his bed while cleaning it.

According to the Shillington Police Department, the man’s dog jumped onto the bed, inadvertently pulling the trigger and firing the weapon. First responders arrived at the scene on the 300 block of State Street, where they found the man with a serious back injury. He was quickly transported to a local hospital for emergency surgery.

Corporal Michael Schoone confirmed that an investigation is currently underway to determine the precise circumstances of the shooting. Authorities are examining whether the dog’s paw inadvertently engaged the trigger or if there was a possible malfunction with the firearm. A spent shell casing was discovered in the shotgun, prompting police to issue a reminder about essential gun safety practices.

“It was just the right place at the right time, or the wrong time,” Schoone remarked, emphasizing the unusual nature of the incident. He urged gun owners to adhere strictly to safety guidelines, including keeping firearms pointed in a safe direction and keeping fingers off the trigger unless ready to shoot.

At the time of the shooting, the man and his son were in separate rooms within the home, and two additional dogs were present. The condition of the injured man has not been disclosed, and police continue to investigate the events leading up to this freak accident.

As this developing story unfolds, officials are reminding the public about the critical importance of safe gun handling practices. More updates are expected as investigations proceed.

Stay tuned for further developments on this unusual and alarming incident.